Head of rugby culture and wine consultant wants people to see ‘the bigger picture’ as he rebuilds club to win the Prem

Arm wrestling with Chas & Dave. Youth hostelling with Chris Eubank. Wine tasting with Brendan Venter. Two of those are among the suggestions made by a flailing Alan Partridge in the famous “smell my cheese” sketch, the other took place on a chilly Tuesday night in north London this week. No prizes for guessing which, given recent events, but 12 months ago it would not have been so easy. Things move fast in the Saracens world, however.

When the invitation arrived, you could not help but smile. Saracens would dispute that Venter’s temporary job title change from director of rugby to head of rugby culture and wine consultant was, to put it bluntly, taking the mickey. But, still, there was something delicious about it. Curiosity took hold, invitation was accepted. A poisoned chalice or a peace offering?

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